Statistics Canada reports that total operating revenue for the real estate agents and brokers industry grew to $9.8 billion in 2010 (the latest year in which numbers are available), up 4.9 per cent from 2009. The industry reported operating expenses of $7.5 billion, an increase of 3.5 per cent from the previous year. As a result, the overall operating profit margin rose to 23.4 per cent from 22.3 per cent in 2009, says Statistics Canada.  

“In 2010, the commissions paid to non-employees accounted for 47 per cent of operating expenses, while salaries and wages comprised 11.6 per cent,” says Statistics Canada.

Real estate appraisers reported a 3.1 per cent increase in total operating revenue to $700 million. In parallel, operating expenses grew by 2.3 per cent to $600 million. The overall operating profit margin increased to 21 per cent from 20.4 per cent in 2009.

Ontario accounted for 49 per cent of Canada’s total operating revenues earned by real estate agents and brokers. British Columbia followed at 18 per cent, while Quebec’s share was 13 per cent and Alberta’s share stood at 12 per cent.

Statistics Canada says most of the real estate agents, brokers, appraisers and other real estate activities industry it tracks (87 per cent) is made up of businesses that act as real estate agents or brokers. The remaining establishments are engaged in providing real estate appraisals or other types of real estate services, it says.